7. Announced

As Mom and Dad made their way to the stage, the crowd's attention shifted towards them. They briefly exchanged more stories and conversations with Aurora and me amidst the bustling crowd.

But when Mom and Dad reached the stage, everyone's gaze was immediately drawn to them. The room fell into a hushed silence, waiting for them to speak or make an announcement.

I could feel a mixture of anticipation and pride welling up within me as I watched my parents take center stage. They were the epitome of grace and power, commanding attention with their mere presence.

I knew that whatever they were about to say or do would have a significant impact on the evening's proceedings.

The sound of a microphone being tapped draws everyone's attention to the stage.

"Ladies and gentlemen, if I could have your attention, please." The crowd turns towards the stage, their curiosity piqued with what Dad said.

Beaming, Mom took the other microphone and looks at me. "We have a special announcement to make this evening," she announces.

As my heart pounded with anticipation, Mom took hold of the microphone and began to speak. Her voice resonated with confidence and authority, captivating the attention of everyone in the room.

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen," Mom's voice echoed through the venue. "Tonight, we gather here not only to celebrate the success of the Percepta Group but also to acknowledge the strength and resilience of our dear daughter, Celeste," she beams and points me from where she is.

"We are thrilled to introduce our daughter, Celeste Koa Fuentebella, who has been an integral part of our lives and our business empire."

 The room erupts into murmurs and surprised whispers as people exchange glances. Gasps of surprise and curiosity rippled through the crowd. I felt my breath catch in my throat, unsure of what was coming next.

Mom continued, her eyes gleaming with pride. "Celeste dear, you have proven yourself time and time again, not only as a capable leader within our company but also as a remarkable individual. Your dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment have inspired all of us."

A sense of disbelief washed over me. I had never expected this level of recognition or acknowledgment. The room erupted into applause and cheers, filling the space with a wave of support and admiration.

Dad stepped forward, his voice steady and filled with emotion. "Tonight, we want to officially announce that Celeste will be taking on a new role within the Percepta Group. She will be assuming the position of Chief Executive Officer, leading our company into a new era of growth and innovation."

The announcement reverberated through my being, leaving me both elated and overwhelmed. The significance of this moment sank in, and tears welled up in my eyes.

The room exploded with applause, and I found myself enveloped in a warm embrace from my parents. It was a surreal moment, a testament to their belief in me and the trust they had placed in my abilities.

I looked around, catching the astonished expressions on the faces of various business owners in attendance.

My gaze then falls upon them, my former family standing amidst the crowd–Mr. Armando Yuchengco, my biological father, Victoria Yuchengco, my stepmother, and my stepsister Isabella. They stand frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief.

We exchanged a long gaze with Dad. I could see a mix of surprise, disappointment, and pain in his eyes as he looked at me. I couldn't avoid his gaze.

After Mom and Dad's conversation in the middle, we quickly descended because the bidding was about to start. My heart raced even harder when I saw Dad approaching us with Victoria and their daughter, Isabella. I hardened my expression as they got closer to us.

"Good evening, Mr. Yuchengco. What a surprise to see you here. I thought you wouldn't be able to attend because your secretary said you were sick," greeted Mama Harper.

I didn't flinch but there's a part of me that caught up with what Mama Harper said.

"Nice to see you again, Harper, Henry," Mr. Yuchengco greeted them and glanced at Oliver and finally me. "And to your son... and daughter."

"I didn't know you had a daughter," added Mr. Yuchengco.

Papa Henry burst into laughter. I noticed Oliver coming closer to me, his hand gripping mine, trembling for an unknown reason.

"Yes, Armando. We didn't make it public, but here we are now. I want you to meet our only daughter, Celeste Koa. We officially adopted her after you abandoned her, leaving her with nothing," Papa Henry's voice was firm, but he still had a smile on his face.

I couldn't help but feel scared. I couldn't help but feel anxious. This wasn't the encounter I had anticipated. I hoped it wouldn't turn into chaos because I didn't want any trouble.

"And who told you that? Did she feed you those lies?" Victoria interrupted Papa Henry.

I saw Mama Harper's expression darken at her words. "Are you accusing my daughter, Victoria?" she replied sharply.

Before things could escalate, I stepped in. I maintained my firm expression as I looked at the three of them, particularly Dad, who appeared pained.

"Excuse me, but this is not the best time to delve into each other's pasts. I also don't want to discuss my own history, so in order to conclude this conversation..." I beamed and smiled at them.

"I hope you will respect my family since you are guests on our premises. I will not tolerate any form of disruption here. Please, excuse us."

However, before I could distance myself from the situation, my attention was diverted to the stage as the emcee abruptly stopped speaking and a familiar man appeared. Wearing a serious and cold smile, he took the microphone and addressed the crowd.

"Good evening, may I interrupt your dinner, please. I'm here to announce my comeback."

There stood Arik Damien S. Rioflorida, looking like a newly minted, handsome, and influential business magnate of them all.